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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: NZD
- Languages: English, Maori
- Climate: Oceanic
- Timezone: Pacific/Auckland
- Population: Approximately 2,000 residents
- Best Time to Visit: time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and vineyard activities.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from Australia, the UK, EU countries, the US, Canada, and several other countries can enter New Zealand visa-free for short stays, typically up to 3 months. Others may require a visa or an electronic travel authority (NZeTA) before arrival. US, EU, and UK citizens generally need to apply for an NZeTA online prior to travel. Visa on arrival is not commonly available; travelers should check current regulations before visiting.
About Martinborough
Martinborough is a quaint town nestled in New Zealand’s Wellington Region, renowned for its world-class vineyards and relaxed rural charm. Unlike larger wine regions, Martinborough offers an intimate experience with boutique wineries often located within walking distance of the village center. The town’s layout, with its distinctive square and heritage buildings, creates a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to visitors seeking a peaceful yet enriching getaway. Martinborough’s Mediterranean-like climate supports the production of premium Pinot Noir, making it a must-visit for wine connoisseurs. Beyond wine, the town boasts artisanal food producers, cozy cafes, and boutique shops, enhancing its appeal as a gourmet destination. Visitors can enjoy scenic cycling routes, local markets, and seasonal festivals that celebrate the region’s viticulture and culture. Martinborough’s blend of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and warm hospitality makes it a unique destination for travelers looking to experience New Zealand’s rural sophistication.
Top Attractions
1. Martinborough Village Square – The heart of the town, featuring historic buildings, boutique shops, and cafes. 2. Palliser Estate Winery – One of the oldest wineries in the region, known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and cellar door tastings. 3. Te Kairanga Vineyard – Offers scenic views, wine tastings, and a restaurant serving local cuisine. 4. Martinborough Brewery – A popular spot for craft beer lovers with a relaxed atmosphere and local brews. 5. Stonehenge Aotearoa – A modern astronomical observatory and cultural landmark inspired by the original Stonehenge.
Popular Activities
Visitors can indulge in wine tasting tours across numerous boutique vineyards, cycle through picturesque countryside trails, and enjoy gourmet dining experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore walking tracks, attend local farmers’ markets, or participate in seasonal events like the Martinborough Fair. The town also offers art galleries and craft shops for cultural exploration. For a unique experience, visitors can book guided vineyard tours or cooking classes featuring local produce.
Martinborough Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of North Island
- Duration Range: Visitors can indulge in wine tasting tours across numerous boutique vineyards, cycle through picturesque countryside trails, and enjoy gourmet dining experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore walking tracks, attend local farmers’ markets, or participate in seasonal events like the Martinborough Fair. The town also offers art galleries and craft shops for cultural exploration. For a unique experience, visitors can book guided vineyard tours or cooking classes featuring local produce.
- Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The ideal time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and vineyard activities. Pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and casual smart attire for dining. Respect local customs by greeting with a friendly attitude and tipping where appropriate. Martinborough is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is advisable for smaller vendors.
Average Tour Price: $65
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $250
4 Available Tour Excursions in Martinborough
We offer the wine enthusiast an elevated wine touring experience with a WSET3 qualified guide. Your tour can be customized but will normally include visits to four of the most famous Martinborough wineries where you will not simply taste wine but will learn about their history and wine-making philosophy with qualified staff, tasting some of the flagship wines and visiting some of the winery facilities such as the barrel room where you may taste wines in barrel. Lunch will be included, usually at one of the wineries. We will make contact with you at least one week before your tour where booking time allows to understand your wine interests and customize the tour accordingly.
Price: $212.04
Duration: 7 hours
Choose from one of 4 departure times when you book. Your Martinborough small-group guided wine-tasting tour runs for approximately 8 hours around the Martinborough appellation. Relax in the comfort of a luxurious vehicle as your local guide drives you around our unique wine village which has a bit of everything. Take a guided walk among grape vines tasting wine as you go at an award-winning vineyard and enjoy our local cuisine with lunch at a top vineyard restaurant. Taste wine along Martinborough's famous 'Golden Mile' strip of vineyards and hear enlightening commentary as you travel. Your tour concludes with an olive grove tour and taste. Round-trip pickup and drop-off from your centrally located Martinborough accommodation or the Featherston Railyway is included.
Price: $212.04
Duration: 6 hours
Let us take you on an impressively scenic road out to the southern coast of New Zealand's North Island. We'll drive to the coast and then to Cape Palliser, the southernmost point of the North Island. We'll drive along the coast and have spectacular views of the open sea and maybe even the South Island. We'll see unusual land formations, drive through the unique fishing village of Ngawi, last the fur seal colony and then get to Cape Palliser where, if you are up for it, we'll climb the 253 steps to the lighthouse. Then we double back to Lake Ferry for lunch at the historic Lake Ferry Hotel. To complete the day we return to Martinborough to taste pinot noir at a Martinborough winery.
Price: $196.89
Duration: 6 hours
The 'Picnic & Pedal' package self guided bike tour includes hire of top quality bikes and helmets, and a delicious picnic consisting of quality local produce for you to enjoy whilst cycling in and around the wine village. This is a freedom tour, if you wish to ride into the countryside rather than around the vine, talk to our friendly staff who will provide excellent route options.
Price: $55.08
Duration: 2-8 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Martinborough.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Martinborough’s food scene emphasizes fresh, local ingredients paired with fine wines. Signature dishes include lamb, venison, and seafood prepared with a New Zealand twist. The town features several acclaimed restaurants such as The Martinborough Hotel, known for its seasonal menus, and Vintners, which offers a blend of local flavors and international influences. Dining customs are casual yet refined, with an emphasis on sharing plates and wine pairing.
Getting Around
Martinborough is best reached by car from Wellington, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Shuttle services and private transfers are also available. Within the town, walking and cycling are popular due to its compact size. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or using taxi services is recommended for exploring surrounding vineyards and attractions. Costs for local taxis and shuttles are moderate.
Travel Tips
The ideal time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and vineyard activities. Pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and casual smart attire for dining. Respect local customs by greeting with a friendly attitude and tipping where appropriate. Martinborough is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is advisable for smaller vendors.
Culture & Customs
Martinborough’s culture reflects New Zealand’s laid-back lifestyle with a strong emphasis on community and hospitality. Social customs include informal greetings and openness to conversation. The town celebrates events like the Martinborough Fair and wine festivals, which showcase local traditions and produce. Visitors should be mindful of respecting private vineyard properties and local environmental practices.
